allow
Usage
What are other ways to say allow?
Allow and permit are often interchangeable as terms that imply granting or conceding the right of someone to do something, but permit is the more positive of the two. Allow implies complete absence of an attempt, or even an intent, to hinder. Permit suggests formal or implied assent or authorization. Let is the familiar, conversational term for both allow and permit.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
North Korea consented to freeze its illicit nuclear work and eventually allow full inspections in exchange for a multibillion-dollar package of civilian nuclear power and oil.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026
This would allow the probe to reduce its speed enough to remain in orbit, rather than simply flying past.
From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026
The service, dubbed SoFi Big Business Banking, will allow enterprise customers to hold deposits, transfer funds, and settle transactions within SoFi’s nationally chartered bank.
From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026
However, it is not clear whether regulators will allow products with names like "strawberry marmalade" to be sold in British supermarkets.
From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026
Light beams out the tip of the wand, and I remember what Dad taught me—that wands can allow Unremarkables to see the Glow.
From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.
